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MR-IQ

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is one of the most accurate medical diagnostic tools in use today. It uses a magnetic field and radio waves to explore the inner workings of the human body. MRI also provides unprecedented visualization of internal organs without using radiation.

Just hearing the words MRI, though, can evoke fear in the minds of some people.
Too often we hear frightening stories from well-meaning people and then, when faced with undergoing an MRI, anticipate a claustrophobic journey into a tunnel of terror. Unfortunately, that anticipation can help make it a reality.

The first time I prepared for an MRI, I realized that the actual testing was out of my hands and it was important to find an area where I did have some control. I decided to focus my attention on the changing levels of bangs, beeps and rat-tat-tat sounds that you’ll hear once you’re positioned inside the MRI tube.

I searched for a method to metabolize those sounds in a way that would serve me rather than frighten me. During that first, short MRI, I thought the sounds produced by the unit resembled Indian drums, thunder, and a woodpecker. Another audible noise actually brought back memories of the sloshing made by an old ringer-style washing machine.
During the test, I had the urge to keep my eyes open while in the surround. It was difficult but sensible to keep them shut. By the time I became accustomed to the sounds and enclosure, the test was over. Later, I learned that another MRI would be set up in a few months.

While preparing for the next MRI, I spoke with several people who had been through similar MRI experiences. We all agreed that for people who are anxious by nature, it might be helpful to ask your primary physician if you are able to receive a prescription for muscle relaxants, which you could take just before leaving the house. If you do so, however, it’s extremely important that you have someone drive you to and from the test.

It was comforting to be able to talk with a technologist over the built-in intercom and to have the option of listening to the MRI Music system.

Much has been said about the power of meditation and visualization, so once I was comfortably and tightly ensconced on the moveable table, I asked the technologist for a face cloth to cover my eyes.

I felt better knowing I could open my eyes anytime to see something familiar – terry cloth.

Preparing myself, I imagined lying in the center of a clearing in a forest on a large, comfortable grass mat with a cozy blanket wrapped snugly around me. I visualized my body surrounded by mountains that seemed to be protecting the oak and fir trees in my make-believe Indian village complete with tee-pees, twinkling river, chirping birds and colorful flowers. The natives were dancing in a circle about me while women were down at the flowing river bathing children while others washed clothes and blankets. The area was comfortably warm with a wonderful breeze. Pine tree scent mingled with the incense, like smoke from a crackling fire burning nearby. The sky was layered with pink cotton candy clouds overlaid with light blue brushstrokes. The birds cooed and cawed through the air.

While lying on my imaginary grass mat, I actively listened for the drum-like sounds instead of waiting fearfully for them. I wanted to use them in my ceremony of drums. When the intermittent sounds began, I could see the smiling Indians weave in and out around me. The dance continued. More drumming Indians joined the circle to add their quick beats to the elongated thunder sounds. I would glance up, occasionally, to see a woodpecker rat-tat-tatting on a nearby tree. Some of the Indians would run over, laugh and point at the beautiful bird.

I was lost in the beauty and sounds of this mystical place until I heard my name being called from what seemed like a faraway place on the other side of the mountains.

I came away from this magical environment to the realization that the technician was asking me to change my position. I felt disappointed that I had to leave the happy circle of natives. After changing my position, I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to mentally pop right back to my village, where the air was warmer, the drum beats softer and the comforting swish, swish of the water lulled me.

I found out later that the water sound was the air cooler for the generator. I actually fell asleep to sounds that had now become familiar and comforting.

Peggy Melanson is a writer, visual and performing artist living in Holyoke. Reach her at chefnostalgia@yahoo.com.